Judging.
In warning against hindrances to holiness, our Lord begins with judging; for in this young converts too often expend the zeal which is given them for better uses. The text admonishes us—
I. THAT THERE IS A JUDGMENT TO COME.
1. This life is under judicial rule.
2. But the judgments of this life are not final.
3. Revelation makes this clear.
II. THAT DIVINE JUSTICE IS RETRIBUTIVE.
1. In its principles.
2. In its sanctions.
III. THESE FACTS SHOULD INFLUENCE OUR CONDUCT.
1. The injunction "judge not" is conditional.
2. We must not judge rashly.
3. We must not judge harshly.
4. There is a sphere in which we must not judge.